John Gonczkowski was born on February 4, 1928 to John Gonczkowski and Victoria Laboda in Wilkes Barre, PA. John died on September 19, 2016 at the North Pinellas Care Center in Palm Harbor, Florida. He is survived by his wife of 60 years of marriage, Iris Gonczkowski (Sculthorpe). Additionally he is survived by sons Stephen, Mark, and Tony Gonczkowski; sisters Frances and Florence Gonczkowski; and grandchildren Nicholas and Sarah Gonczkowski.
John served his country in the United States Air Force as a Aircraft Mechanic and retired as a Tech Sergeant. At the time of his discharge he was able to wear the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star on his uniform. A graveside service with military honors provided by the United States Air Force is scheduled for Friday, September 23, 2016 at 2:00 pm.
Friends and family are invited to share a memory and sign his guestbook below.
Though I only had the pleasure of meeting Granddad once, it was clear that he was a great man who cared deeply for his family. I know how much Nick loved and admired him. My condolences to our family in Florida. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I’m sorry we can’t be there for his services. He will be missed.
-Deana Gearhart
I will forever remember my GrandDad as the classic grandfather. He took me on fishing trips in Colorado, showed me mind-blowing card tricks that I still have not figured out and even rode roller coasters with me for as long he could up until around age 80 among many other fun things. He shared wisdom during my visits with him that have shaped me into the man I am today. He was a very loving family man who also served his country!
I will miss him dearly but I know in my heart he is in a better place now and his suffering is over.
Deana and I are very sorry we can’t make the service. We know GrandDad will be in attendance spiritually at our wedding.
Nick, I am so very sorry to hear of your Grandad’s passing. What a beautifully moving tribute. Made me feel as if I knew him…which I guess I do by having the pleasure of knowing you! My heart sends the most sincere sympathies to you & your family during this most arduous Time!
Paula K. Chapman
I didn’t know him, but I heard a lot about him and I know Nick cared about him deeply. Sorry for your loss.
Dear Gonczkowskis,
I’ve been honored to have 2 wonderful father-in-laws. We’ve just lost my first one. Your job in this lifetime of serving our country and your family was a job well done and now finished. Our happy and forever memory will be your laugh and smile in the back seat of that Fiat last year!! Rest easy John Gonczkowski!
Love to the Gonczkowskis!
Karen and Gary Revis